Skin Gadgets that Work

Tried and tested: the top at-home tools for every age.

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20s COMBAT ACNE If the topical acne products that worked for you as a teenager are no longer doing the trick, a nightly five-minute dose of blue-light therapy is a dependable way to keep breakouts at bay. "It's the best-known light therapy for acne treatment," says Howard Sobel, a cosmetic dermatologist and director of the New York Institute of Aesthetic Dermatology and Laser Surgery. The TRIA Skin Clarifying System ($225) consists of a salicylic and glycolic cleanser, a blue-light device, and a rejuvenating serum and works to "shrink sebaceous glands and break down the bacteria that cause acne and inflammation in the first place," explains Sobel.

30s SMOOTH SKIN TEXTURE

Microdermabrasion can make a big difference in your skin's tone and texture by removing dead cells that cause the sallow, blotchy, pigmented skin that often shows up in your 30s. "It helps bring back a refreshed, luminous, rosy glow," explains Sobel. The DDF Revolve 400X Micro-Polishing System ($95) differs from traditional vibrating and oscillating microdermabrasion devices because it circulates in a rotating motion up to 400 times per minute and uses gentle sodium-bicarbonate polishing crystals that dissolve into the skin. (Harsher crystals like aluminum oxide or diamond can be harmful when breathed into the lungs.) Use it in the shower twice weekly for the best results.

40s DIMINISH FINE LINES Suddenly seeing sun damage? "All of those great days on the beach when you were a teen are now showing up on your face," says Sobel. The Zeno Line Rewind ($39.99) combines heat, vibration, and red-light technology in a two-part system that can be used daily on the face, neck, and décolletage to stimulate collagen production. After smoothing on the serum (it's packed with peptides, resveratrol, and hyaluronic acid), massage the skin with the device so it will fully absorb the ingredients. "The red light tightens skin, softens redness, and improves texture, while the vibration and heat help increase ingredient absorption and plump the skin," says Sobel.

50S MINIMIZE CROW'S-FEET "In your 50s, the delicate skin around your eyes is subject to deep lines and excessive dryness due to hormonal changes and the cumulative factors of aging," says Sobel. Essentially, crow's-feet are an inevitable part of getting older. The PaloVia Skin Renewing Laser ($499) can help by generating short pulses of microfine laser light that penetrates deep beneath the skin's surface. "This stimulates the skin's natural healing process to shed dead skin cells and promote new collagen and elastin production," Sobel notes. The device is best used on finer lines every day for the first month and then twice each week afterward.

60+ FIRM & DEPUFF If your concealer is no longer doing the job when it comes to hiding dark undereye circles and puffiness, the Clarisonic Opal Sonic Infusion System ($245) is a good, gentle option. "The skin around our eyes is the thinnest on our body, so with age, the area can become sensitive and crepey looking," explains Sobel. The Opal combines an antiaging serum and a small circular applicator tip that when used together help drive firming peptides deep into the skin for brighter, firmer, and more hydrated-looking eyes without damaging or stretching this tender area. Use it daily, morning and night.